The H1N1 virus, commonly referred to as swine flu, was thusly named because early tests revealed it contained many of the same characteristics as the H1N1 virus that spreads through pig populations. Further testing has shown that the virus shares very little in common with the flu that hits North American pigs. Instead, it has some similar characteristics of European pigs and birds, as well as two human gene viruses, making it a deadly new strain.
History
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the swine flu first appeared in 1930 when it was isolated in a pig.
Misconceptions
The swine flu is rarely passed on to humans. The pig respiratory illness typically infects people who have had direct exposure to a pig with the virus.
Significance
The new strain of influenza was first detected in April 2009 in the United States and by June 2009, it was listed as a worldwide pandemic.
Risk
The newest strain of H1N1, or swine flu, is passed on from human to human in much the same way as conventional flu viruses spread, through coughing and sneezing from infected individuals, report CDC doctors.
Symptoms
Symptoms of swine flu include coughing, sore throat, body aches and chills, fever and fatigue. Some patients develop diarrhea and vomiting. Symptoms typically appear within three to five days after exposure and last about eight days. Severe symptoms can cause death.
Treatment
Doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that most people do not need special treatment other than over-the-counter symptom relief. Antiviral drugs are available to treat people at high risk, which includes those with compromised immune systems, children under 5 years old and those over age 65, as well as patients with other chronic diseases.
